Camping options near Florence, Colorado range from high-altitude forest settings to lakeside spots with reservoir views. The area sits at the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains where elevations vary from 5,400 feet in Florence to nearly 9,000 feet at higher campgrounds. Summer temperatures can exceed 90°F in lower elevations, while mountain campgrounds stay cooler and occasionally experience afternoon thunderstorms from July through September.
What to do
Hiking trails at Mueller State Park: The park features over 40 miles of trails suitable for hiking and wildlife viewing. "The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all," reports a visitor to Mueller State Park Campground. "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!"
Mountain biking on beginner-friendly terrain: The trail system at Cheyenne Mountain offers well-maintained paths ideal for new riders. "Nothing technical, well manicured trials with amazing views. Lots of wildlife, beware of rattlesnakes. Awesome Mountain Biking, great for family's and beginners," notes a review of Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
Fishing at Lake Pueblo: The reservoir provides ample fishing opportunities with various access points around the shoreline. According to a camper at Arkansas Point Campground: "Beautiful lake and I saw lots of people catching fish. Rocky ground and only shade is from the table cover."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area offer chances to spot local wildlife. "We had a fairly spacious site but beware back to back sites when booking. We were right in with nature--we heard wolves howling every night," shares a visitor to Northern Plains Campground.
Sunset and night sky views: The clear mountain air provides excellent stargazing conditions. As one camper at Juniper Breaks Campground describes: "Sunsets were beautiful and the nighttime show of stars spectacular! The picnic shelters, at every site, are a nice protection from the winds and sun."
Proximity to historic mining towns: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to mining-era attractions. A guest at Cripple Creek KOA notes: "Great hiking nearby and the towns of Cripple Creek and Victor are full of old mining history!"
What you should know
Limited water access at some sites: Several campgrounds require you to bring your own water or access it from central locations. "There is no water in any sites, and there was no water in the bathrooms and no shower. There is a drinking water spigot near the bathrooms," reports a Juniper Breaks camper.
High elevation considerations: Altitude sickness can affect visitors at higher campgrounds. "The air is thin up here- real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it," advises a visitor to Cripple Creek KOA.
Seasonal weather patterns: The region experiences afternoon thunderstorms in summer months. "We got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns a Mueller State Park camper, while another notes: "We were threatened with a ticket for parking on the gravel at our site."
Tips for camping with families
Adventure activities for kids: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly recreation options. "We took our kids (2, 5, & 7) to the junior ranger class they host at the visitor center almost every Saturday. They learned about boat safety and got free sunglasses and emergency whistles," shares a visitor to Five Points Campground.
Playground accessibility: Some campgrounds have dedicated play areas for children. "Close to comfort station and playground. Coin showers but are super clean," notes a Mueller State Park visitor staying in the Conifer area.
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with educational programs. "My 7 year old niece finished her ranger booklet and got a junior ranger badge, which she loved," mentions a camper at Five Points Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When booking, pay attention to site layouts and accessibility. "They do have a lot of seasonal activities that were closed when we were there in October. This is a typical KOA. Sites are close together," reports an RVer at Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA.
Hookup availability: Electric options vary across campgrounds. "Very nice facility and clean. We had a great time even with the weather was all over the place. We had electric hookups only," notes a visitor to Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
Level site importance: Many campgrounds feature varied terrain. "Level sites with water, electric and sewer. We stayed in Yucca Flats. Which was nice, but very open. Not much cover anywhere, maybe 1 tree or large bush per site?" shares a Northern Plains Campground visitor.